For many Nigerians aspiring to study abroad and ultimately move to Canada, obtaining an educational credential assessment (ECA) is a crucial step in the process. One of the most recognized organizations for this assessment is the World Education Services (WES). WES plays a significant role in helping international students validate their educational qualifications, making it easy to pursue higher education or professional opportunities in Canada. This guide is a comprehensive overview of how Nigerian students can apply for WES evaluation, detailing each step involved, from gathering the necessary documents to applying. Whether you want to further your studies or enhance your professional credentials for Canada’s Express Entry program, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence you need for the WES application process.
What is WES Evaluation?
World Education Services (WES) is a non-profit organization that evaluates and accredits academic credentials obtained outside Canada and the United States. A WES evaluation involves an assessment of your educational qualifications, such as degrees, diplomas, and certificates, to determine their equivalency in North American terms. A WES report will:
- Verify that your credentials are correct
- Identify and describe your credentials
- Include a GPA equivalency
- Confirm the authenticity of your documents
- It also helps standardize your performance according to the US or Canadian standards and converts your CGPA to a GPA.
How Does a WES Evaluation Work?
You must submit your academic transcripts and other relevant documents to WES for evaluation. Their experts will then compare your credentials to the educational standards of the country where you want to study or work and provide you with a detailed report.
Benefits of WES for International Students
Smooth Transition into Higher Education
WES evaluation makes it simpler by offering a recognized assessment that universities everywhere understand. With a WES evaluation report, you can apply to universities confidently, knowing your qualifications are recognized and respected.
Enhance employability
Global employers appreciate candidates with varied educational backgrounds and experiences. But sometimes, international credentials are not recognized, which can hold back your career. WES evaluation helps employers understand your educational achievements better, boosting your chances of getting hired and opening up exciting career paths.
Professional Licensing and Certification
If you want to work in professions like medicine, nursing, or engineering, it is essential to have your academic qualifications evaluated. WES evaluation helps your qualifications meet the requirements set by licensing organizations. It can make it easier for you to get a license to work in your chosen field.
There are Three Main Steps to Apply for WES
- Start by submitting your application and getting your WES application number.
- Then, review the document requirements and send in your documents, remembering to include your WES reference number.
- Upon verification of your credentials, your recipients will receive your report.
Is WES Evaluation a Must in the US & Canada?
If your university requests a WES assessment, you must provide it. While most Canadian colleges do not require an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) from WES, some universities do. It is generally a good idea to get your ECA done. Additionally, you must provide an ECA if you are applying for Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry. WES is one of several organizations that provides ECA. Other designated organizations include:
- Comparative Education Service – University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
- International Credential Assessment Service of Canada
- International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)
- International Credential Evaluation Service – British Columbia Institute of Technology
You will need a WES evaluation to study or work in the USA. Other agencies that provide ECA for education or jobs in the USA include:
- Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)
- Josef Silny & Associates International Education Consultants (JS&A)
- WES
- Educated Choices, LLC
- American Education and Translation Services (AET)
Things to Know
Plan Ahead
Look up what your destination country needs for the evaluation. Collect all the necessary documents well in advance. Address any potential issues or discrepancies early on to avoid last-minute delays.
Provide Comprehensive Documentation
To get a successful WES evaluation, accuracy and thoroughness are crucial. Make sure you submit complete and accurate transcripts, diplomas, and other relevant documents, translated into English if needed. Clear documentation helps speed up the evaluation process and reduces the chances of errors or misunderstandings.
Seek Guidance
The WES evaluation process can feel overwhelming, especially if you are an international student doing it for the first time. We can help! Contact us here to start!
Conclusion
A WES evaluation is a valuable tool for international students and professionals, providing a standardized and recognized assessment of their educational credentials. For Nigerian students like you looking to study in the US or migrate to Canada, understanding and obtaining a WES evaluation is a critical step in achieving your goals.
